Effect of a Limited Time Feeding System on Reproductive Performance of Heavy Breed Pullets

Abstract

SEVERAL methods of restricting body weight gains of heavy breed pullets and hens have been reported. Total feed-intake has been limited by feeding a measured amount or by limiting the time feed is available. Other systems have been used in which the level of energy, protein, or an amino acid has been lowered to reduce body weight gains and delay sexual maturity even though pullets consume feed ad libitum.Sexual maturity has been delayed by restricting pullets to 77% of ad libitum intake (Howes and Cottier, 1965). Smaller delays in sexual maturity were obtained by feeding low protein diets in comparison with feed restriction. Waldroup et al. (1966) concluded that body weight gain could be reduced during both the growing and laying periods by reducing the protein level without adversely affecting performance factors.Singsen et al. (1958) restricted feed intake of laying hens to 78% of ad libitum without affecting…